Best Places to Travel for Food in the USA

• The USA has so many food scenes, from New Orleans, Seattle, and New York City to unique flavors of Creole, fresh seafood, and international street food. 

• Each city has its own signature dishes and food experiences, like deep-dish pizza in Chicago, farm-to-table in Portland, and tech-driven food spots in San Francisco. 

• To get the most out of a food trip, book ahead, visit local food markets, attend food festivals, and follow food safety guidelines. 
   

For food lovers, travel is more than sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the best bites a city has to offer. The USA is a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity is reflected in its food scene. From smoky barbecue in the South to fresh seafood along the coast and award-winning chefs crafting fine dining experiences, every foodie city has something unique to offer. Whether you're savoring dim sum in San Francisco, indulging in Italian food in New York City’s North End, or enjoying lobster rolls in a small city by the sea, amazing food is within reach. 

This foodie’s guide highlights the best places to travel for food in the USA and offers tips to help you explore your next delicious destination. 
 

Best Places to Travel for Food in the USA 

If food is the center of your travel plans, then get ready for a tasty adventure across the USA. So grab your fork, leave room for dessert, and check out some of the best places to travel for food in the USA. 

Oakland, California 

Oakland, California, is an underrated food hub with a mix of global flavors. The city has a thriving Ethiopian food scene with injera and spicy stews.  

Lao-style papaya salad and soul food add to the culinary diversity. For barbecue lovers, Horn Barbecue serves Texas-style brisket with a Bay Area twist. The street food scene comes alive at Oakland First Fridays with food trucks and local eats.  

Vegan foodies will love Souley Vegan, which is famous for its plant-based soul food. Whether you want smoky meats or international flavors, Oakland is a must-visit. 

New Orleans, Louisana 

New Orleans’ rich history and cultural influences make it one of the best food cities in the USA. This Big Easy destination is a perennial favorite for travelers who love bold flavors and Southern hospitality. Famous for its Creole and Cajun cuisine, the city offers a diverse food scene featuring gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and jambalaya. 

For a hands-on experience, take a French Quarter food tour, where you can savor everything from beignets to po’boys. Don't miss the muffuletta sandwich at Central Grocery, a staple for those exploring New Orleans’ best bites. Beyond classic dishes, discover innovative takes on local flavors at modern restaurants or visit the Southern Food & Beverage Museum to learn about the region’s culinary heritage. 

For a more upscale meal, enjoy a unique dining experience at the Four Seasons Hotel, or stop by Stein’s Market & Deli for a plate of shrimp Creole. Whether you're sampling dishes from food trucks or dining at a fine-dining restaurant, New Orleans is a true foodie city where literally everything is worth a taste.  

Seattle, Washington 

Seattle’s food scene is a mix of fresh seafood, iconic coffee, and global flavors, making it one of the best places to travel for food in the USA. Must-try dishes include wild salmon, clam chowder from Pike Place Chowder, and the city’s signature teriyaki. 

For seafood lovers, Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar is a hidden gem where you can sample local oysters. Don’t miss the famous Pike Place Market fish-throwing stalls for an Instagram-worthy moment. 

To experience Seattle’s coffee culture, take a tasting tour at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. Whether you're dining at upscale restaurants or casual eateries, Seattle is a foodie city with flavors for every palate. 

New York City, New York 

New York City’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its diverse population. A foodie city like no other, NYC offers literally everything, from classic New York-style pizza at Lombardi’s or Joe’s Pizza to towering pastrami sandwiches at Katz’s Delicatessen. 

Explore global flavors in Chinatown, Little Italy, and Koreatown, or find hidden gems like Xi’an Famous Foods, known for hand-pulled noodles. Visit Smorgasburg in Brooklyn for an eclectic mix of dishes, or take on the 5lb ramen bowl challenge at Totto Ramen. In the Big Apple, the food goes beyond the plate; it’s part of the city’s identity. 

San Francisco, California 

San Francisco is one of the best food cities in the USA, blending fresh seafood, farm-to-table ingredients, and innovative fusion cuisine. Must-try dishes include Dungeness crab, sourdough bread, and Mission-style burritos. 

Skip the tourist-heavy Fisherman’s Wharf and head to Swan Oyster Depot for an authentic seafood experience. For a trendy treat, visit Mr. Holmes Bakehouse and try their famous croissant-doughnut hybrid. 

Experience the city’s tech-driven food scene at Cafe X, where robot baristas serve your coffee. With its mix of fine dining and casual eats, San Francisco remains a perennial favorite for food lovers. 

Chicago, Illinois 

Chicago’s food goes way beyond deep-dish pizza. While a must-try for visitors, locals prefer thin “tavern-style” pizza. A deep dish with its tall crust and layered fillings is more like a savory pie. 

For a classic experience, go to Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s as they are known for their stuffed deep dish. Beyond pizza, try Italian sandwiches or a Chicago-style hot dog. 

For fine dining, check out Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea or Kasama, which are Filipino fusion restaurants. Adventurous eaters can try the 3-pound burger challenge at Kuma’s Corner. 

Portland, Oregon 

Portland’s food scene is synonymous with its food truck culture, where hundreds of carts serve different cuisines. Ranked as one of the top food truck cities in the country, Portland has innovative street food at various “pods.” 

The city’s coffee culture is vibrant, with numerous independent shops serving up expertly crafted brewed. In fact, it has also been recognized as a coffee capital. Also, with more breweries than any other US city, Portland’s craft beer scene is a must-try. 

Try blue cheese ice cream at Salt & Straw, find fresh organic food at local farmers' markets, and explore the unique dining settings that make Portland one of the best places to travel for food in the USA. 

Honolulu, Hawaii 

Honolulu is a foodie paradise, blending Hawaiian, Asian, Pacific, and American cuisines. You must try poke, loco moco, and malasadas and experience the iconic plate lunch. 

For a local secret go to Helena’s Hawaiian Food for the best kalua pork, smoky and salty like fine Southern BBQ. Get Instagrammable moments at Leonard’s Bakery with their picture-perfect malasadas. 

Try Spam Musubi from a gas station. It’s a surprisingly tasty local favorite. You should also go to Yama’s Fish Market for pre-packed kalua pork when exploring food during your trip. 

Atlanta, Georgia 

Atlanta’s food is Southern with a modern twist. Try must-have dishes like fried chicken, peach cobbler, and shrimp & grits, as these show the city’s rich food history. Find a hidden spot at Mary Mac’s Tea Room for a traditional Southern meal drenched in history.  

For a late-night bite, go to The Varsity, a legendary drive-in diner that has been serving Atlantans for generations. 

You can also experience something new at Trap Music & Tacos. It is a hip-hop food fest that combines music and food into one event. Atlanta’s chefs are putting a modern spin on Southern cuisine with global influences. 

Miami, Florida 

Miami is a hub for Cuban and Latin American cuisine, reflecting its vibrant cultural diversity. Cuban sandwiches and cafecito are iconic, and the best place to try them is Versailles Restaurant, where the famous cafecito window serves up strong, sweet espresso. 

For a Cuban burger, visit El Mago de las Fritas. Beyond Cuban fare, Miami’s food scene is shaped by influences from Peru, Colombia, and beyond. 

The city is also home to Michelin-starred restaurants, including L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, offering a fine dining experience with international flair. From food trucks to fine dining, Miami is one of the best food cities in the USA for travelers looking to eat their way through town. 

Travel Tips for Exploring Best Food Places in the US 

Before setting off to explore the best food cities in the USA, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your foodie adventure. 

• Book Ahead – Popular restaurants in foodie cities like New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco fill up fast. Make reservations in advance, especially for Michelin-starred restaurants and award-winning spots. 

• Eat Like a Local – Instead of searching for the most touristy best restaurants, ask locals where they eat. Hidden gems, food trucks, and neighborhood diners often serve the most authentic amazing food. 

• Time Your Trip – Plan around food festivals in the USA to experience seasonal specialties and regional flavors. Events like the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience and Portland’s Feast Festival showcase the best of the local food scene. 

• Visit Farmers’ Markets – Farmers markets and food halls offer fresh, local ingredients and artisanal goods. Check out USDA-certified farmers' markets for organic produce and unique regional specialties. 

• Research Food Safety Guidelines – Check the FDA’s food safety tips for travelers to ensure you're eating at clean, reputable places and avoiding foodborne illnesses. 

• Know U.S. Tipping Etiquette – Most restaurants expect a 15-20% tip. Some major cities include service charges, so check your bill before tipping. 

• Follow Local Health Inspections – Look up a restaurant’s health inspection rating on city government websites before dining out. This can help you choose spots with high cleanliness standards. 

• Consider Travel Insurance: Food adventures can sometimes lead to unexpected situations. Travel insurance can help if you face trip delays, need medical assistance, or have to change your plans unexpectedly. It’s good to have coverage when exploring new food cities. 

FAQS 

1. What are the must-visit food festivals in the United States? 

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, Taste of Chicago, Maine Lobster Festival, and Charleston Wine + Food Festival are some of the top food festivals in the U.S. They feature local flavors, celebrity chefs, and unique dining experiences. 

2. How do you experience a city’s food scene in a short trip? 

Join a local food tour, visit a food market, or ask locals for their favorite hidden gems. Prioritize must-try dishes unique to the city, such as beignets in New Orleans or tacos in LA, and you’ll make the most of your short visit. 

3. Which city in the US has the best pizza - New York or Chicago? 

Your preference is what matters. New York-style pizza is thin, foldable, and perfect for eating on the go, while Chicago’s deep dish pizza is thick, cheesy, and a full meal. Both cities have legendary pizzerias. 

4. How does the culture of a city impact its food? 

A city’s culture determines its food by mixing traditions, local ingredients, and immigrant influences. For example, New Orleans cuisine is a mix of French, African, and Creole flavors, while LA is known for its Mexican, Korean, and Japanese food scenes.